asked the Minister for Health the allocation he is making for the extension to Our Lady of Lourdes maternity hospital; the amount of potential employment that will be involved; the amount of moneys allocated; and when it is likely that this important development will commence.
Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) Hospital.
94.
The estimated cost of building the new maternity unit at Our Lady of Lourdes hospital, Drogheda, is £5.2 million in current terms, the work to be spread over four years. It is estimated that about 70 workers will be employed on the site and, in addition there will be employment created off-site in meeting the various building and services requirements.
The project is currently at stage 4 of the planning process which involves the preparation of constructional drawings and specifications. A considerable amount of planning work remains to be done, including the preparation of detailed bills of quantities, tendering procedures and conditions of contract.
I am currently reviewing the health capital programme for the next three years and I am giving serious and detailed consideration to the timing of the various projects that will be contained in it. A decision on the precise starting date for the building of the maternity unit must await the completion of the planning process for the scheme and the outcome of my review of the capital programme.